Lucca Comics & Games 2026: Our Guide to the 60th Edition

Tuesday, October 13, 2026 Elipaj

All about Lucca Comics & Games 2026 (October 28 – November 1): the 60th anniversary, the official poster, venue map, transport tips, and stress-free accommodation advice.

Europe’s most beloved pop culture festival is turning 60. Founded in 1966 as the International Comics Fair, Lucca's iconic event celebrates its "Diamond Anniversary" from October 28 to November 1, 2026.

As tradition dictates, the historic Renaissance walls and medieval city center will set the stage for the world capital of comics, gaming, animation, and cinema.

In this guide, you will find the latest news, practical details, and top tips to enjoy the festival stress-free while relaxing in the charming surrounding countryside of Lucca and Versilia.

The 60th Anniversary Theme: "Legacy"

To celebrate six decades of history, the official theme chosen is Legacy: a tribute to the bond between generations of authors and fans.

The official poster was created by Claudio Castellini (Marvel, DC Comics, Bonelli) and features a bold visual contrast: graphic black-and-white characters representing the history and genres of pop culture stand out against a vivid red background, topped by a brightly colored young girl holding a pencil, a symbol of new creative energy passing the torch to the future.

Star guests for the 60th edition include legends such as Go Nagai (Grendizer), Frank Miller (300), Yoshinori Kitase (Final Fantasy VII), and composer Yoko Kanno.

For the first time ever, Alberto Angela will also be attending Lucca Comics & Games. He will be featured in a talk with Gianluca Gazzoli, designed to explore different worlds, eras, and imaginations... The event will take place on October 31st at the Giacomo Puccini Teatro del Giglio and requires advance reservation.

Practical Guide: Tickets, Trains, and Parking

1. How Tickets and Wristbands Work

Strolling through the historic center and walking along most of Lucca's Renaissance walls is completely free.

A ticket (and corresponding wristband) is required only to enter the exhibition pavilions, vendor stands, indoor exhibitions in historic palaces, and special indoor events.

Our Tip: Buy your tickets online in advance and pick up your wristband at the official Welcome Desks (located at the Train Station, Palasport, and Tagliate Parking) before joining the pavilion queues.

2. Getting There

During the festival, the entire historic center is fully pedestrianized.

By Train (Recommended Option): Lucca Train Station is located just 200 meters from the city walls. Trenitalia runs hundreds of extra train services to and from Viareggio, Camaiore, Pisa, and Florence.
By Car & Parking: If arriving by car, you must pre-book your parking space in the dedicated Event Parking areas using the official Metro Park Lucca platform.

Tips for a Stress-Free Visit

To make the most of the festival without running out of energy:

Plan Your Schedule: Pavilions are busiest between 11:00 AM and 3:00 PM. Take advantage of the early morning (from 09:00 AM) or late afternoon to shop at the stands, leaving the central hours for outdoor walks or lunch.
Clothing & Cosplay: Wear comfortable walking shoes: you can easily cover 10 to 15 km a day. If you are cosplaying, plan the transport of larger props well in advance.
Smart Lunch Breaks: Avoid long queues at food stands in the city center during peak hours; carry snacks and water with you, or visit restaurants located just outside the city walls.

Festival Venues & Main Areas

Exhibition halls are open daily from 09:00 AM to 07:00 PM. Here is where to find the main sectors:

Comics (Piazza Napoleone & Corso Garibaldi): The heart of the publishing sector, featuring stands from major Italian and international publishers.
Games & Videogames (Baluardo San Donato & Carducci): The massive Carducci pavilion (outside the walls) hosts board and tabletop gaming giants, while video game previews fill the bastions and historic palaces.
Japan Town (Giardino degli Osservanti): The area entirely dedicated to Japanese pop culture, manga, Asian food, and the world of cosplay.
Fantasy & LARP (Baluardo San Paolino & Santa Maria): Historical camps, live-action role-playing, and medieval displays along the bastions.
Exhibitions in Historic Palaces: Free-entry art exhibitions featuring master illustrators are hosted inside Palazzo Guinigi, Palazzo Ducale, and Fondazione Banca del Monte.

Where to Stay During the Festival

If you are looking for the perfect home for the upcoming Lucca Comics & Games, ask TuscanHouses!

Our portfolio offers a wide selection of properties: right in the heart of Lucca (both inside and just outside the historic walls), in the immediate surroundings only minutes away from the festival, as well as in the hills and along the Versilia coast.

Which option should you choose?

In the City Center. Good to know.

Securing a home in Lucca’s historic center requires booking well in advance due to the event's global popularity. Costs can be slightly higher, and you might face minor practical challenges managing luggage, accessories, or cosplay outfits amidst the crowds and traffic. However, staying in town is perfect for those who want an intense, all-inclusive experience, fully immersed 24/7 in a festival that transforms the entire city.

Outside the City (Lucca Hills, Camaiore & Versilia)

Choosing a home in the surrounding countryside or along the coast brings significant practical advantages:

Fast & Direct Connections: From Versilia train stations (such as Viareggio or Camaiore), central Lucca is just a 15–20 minute train ride away, saving you from traffic and parking searches.
Space and Privacy: For groups or cosplayers with bulky props and costumes, a private villa or independent apartment provides generous spaces, multiple bathrooms, and ultimate convenience when getting ready.
Peaceful Evenings: After an exciting day in the crowds, retreat to the tranquility of the Tuscan countryside and enjoy fine dining at authentic local restaurants away from the noise.

Book Your Stay with TuscanHouses

Whether you are planning a group trip for the cosplay event of the year or a cultural weekend with your family, our properties provide the ideal logistical base for the 60th edition of Lucca Comics & Games.

Here are a few examples:

In town

Outside the city

In Versilia

Contact the TuscanHouses team to check availability for October 28 – November 1, 2026, and secure your charming Tuscan retreat close to the event!